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Old Jade Plant Dropping Leaves: Light, Water, or Age?

A 20+ year jade dropping 70+ leaves in 3 weeks (many fresh) signals stress. At 3+ ft in a 12" pot, it's likely rootbound but stable—sudden change suggests environmental shift.

Top Suspects

CauseEvidenceFix
Insufficient LightWinter sun angle lower; indoor light reducedMove to sunniest window (south/west). Supplemental grow light helps.
Watering IssueOnce/twice monthly may be too little in active growthWater thoroughly when top 2–3" dry. In summer, may need weekly.
Natural AgingLower branches become horizontal, shed leavesPrune leggy stems to rejuvenate. New growth from cuts.

Action Plan

  1. Check soil moisture at depth—bone dry or soggy?
  2. Move to maximum light immediately.
  3. Adjust watering: deep soak when top third dry.
  4. If stems are horizontal/leggy, prune back to upright nodes.
  5. Outdoor summer vacation (gradual acclimation) boosts vigor.

Jades are tough. Correct light/water usually reverses leaf drop within weeks.

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